Michael Godfrey, born and raised in a small suburb outside of Los Angeles, California, knew from an early age that art was his calling. His journey as an artist has been a winding one, filled with diverse experiences that have shaped his unique artistic vision. From a career as a commercial artist to years spent training and competing as an Ironman, Godfrey’s life has been a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft.
Godfrey’s artistic journey began with experimentation in various media, but it was oil paint that ultimately captured his imagination. After high school, he embarked on a journey to Guadalajara, Mexico, where he studied art at the University of Guadalajara. It was during this time that he honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for the rich, light-filled landscapes of the Hawaiian Islands.
In 1973, Godfrey moved to Hawaii, where he spent his days studying the landscapes and working nights at a hotel. This period of his life was instrumental in shaping his artistic style, as he immersed himself in the natural beauty of the islands and learned to capture the essence of light and color in his paintings.
In 1979, Godfrey returned to California and resumed his studies at the California College of Arts and Crafts, where he graduated with a degree in Illustration. He then began a career as a commercial illustrator, working in oils, acrylics, and pen and ink. Throughout this time, he continued to paint, constantly pushing himself to evolve and grow as an artist.
Godfrey’s early influences were the impressionists, and their focus on capturing the essence of a scene rather than its literal representation has remained with him throughout his career. He also draws inspiration from cubism, which adds an element of imagination and abstraction to his work.
Godfrey’s creative process is a blend of observation and imagination. He often begins by stumbling upon a scene that inspires him, but more often than not, he relies on his imagination to create the visuals he needs. His paintings are familiar yet dreamlike, capturing the essence of everyday scenes while floating somewhere between reality and imagination.
Today, Godfrey resides in Costa Rica with his wife of 31 years and two cats. His recent work, such as “El Cajon,” is a reflection of his life in Costa Rica and his ongoing exploration of the world around him. Each painting is an interpretation of life as he envisions it, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of his creativity.
In conclusion, Michael Godfrey’s life and work are a testament to the power of art to transform and inspire. His journey as an artist has been a winding one, filled with diverse experiences that have shaped his unique artistic vision. From his early days experimenting with different media to his current work in Costa Rica, Godfrey’s paintings continue to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.
